12 Remodeling Projects That Add Value

Design: LL&A Interior Design

1
UPDATE YOUR WINDOWS

Replace drafty windows with new energy-efficient models. If this is not in your budget, you can opt for adding storm windows, or caulking cracks around your current windows. You'll see a return when you sell and save on bills in the meantime. 

2
FINISH YOUR SPACE

Make the most of what you've got by transforming unused space, such as finishing a basement or an attic. If you have a lot of space to work with, try a game room, or if you are limited, try a small office.

Design: Burnham Design

Design: Kristy Kay

3 REFINISH HARDWOOD FLOORS

Wood flooring is a sign of quality, and there could be dollar signs hiding beneath old carpeting. If there are, it's worth tearing up the carpet and refinishing the wood.  Most buyers today are more likely to pass on a house with wall-to-wall carpeting because it's harder to clean.

Tip!  If refinishing every floor is not an option, create a great first impression by finishing the entryway. This shows buyers the potential hiding under the carpet. 

4
CREATE A FOCAL POINT

Every room needs a centre of attraction. Create a focal point for your living room by adding a fireplace. Whether built from scratch or prefabricated, a fireplace will add value to any space.

Design: Embellish Interiors

Design: Cory Connor Designs

5 FRESH PAINT

Give your walls a coat of fresh paint. It shows potential buyers the home has been maintained, but also makes the space feel new. Choosing a neutral palette will appeal to all and complement your existing furniture. 

6 ADD CHARACTER

Replace a regular window with a bay window to make your room feel larger. If possible, work in a window seat for built-in storage. When preparing for an open house, make this area cozy and inviting so your viewers won't want to leave.

Design: Chango & Co

Tip! On a window seat or sofa, style colourful and patterned accent pillows to brighten up
the space. Check out How to Mix Patterns in Home Decor for more pattern inspiration.

Design: Chango & Co

7
COUNTERTOPS

Upgrade your countertops. Granite is the most popular choice, but soapstone, quartz, and even concrete can add value. New home buyers will appreciate not having to tackle this renovation project themselves.

8
COUNTER SPACE

Add an island, especially if your kitchen is lacking in surface area. Even if it's not built-in, people love the extra work space a kitchen cart or prep table brings to the room. 

Design: Garman Homes

Design: Terracotta Design Build
https://www.wayfair.ca/Shop-The-Look/Designer/TERRACOTTA-DESIGN-BUILD-D157646

9
UPGRADE APPLIANCES

If your appliances are more than 10 years old, replace them. There are endless styles, but if you want the most bang for your buck look for energy-efficient options. Buyers will love the idea of saving money. 

Tip! Need more kitchen inspiration? We offer 10 Kitchen Makeover Tips that we know you won't be able to resist. 

10
ADD A BATHROOM, OR HALF

If your home only has one bathroom, building a second (or even a half) bath will add considerable value to your home. Look into adding one on a different floor than the one existing.

Design: Veneer Designs

Design: Susie Herr

11
REFRESH YOUR BATH

It's time to say goodbye to your old bathroom tile. Introduce a playful geometric pattern to your bath for a bolder look, like designer Susie Herr, or go clean and simple with white subway tile. 

12
TWO IS BETTER THAN ONE

Instal a second sink (particularly if it's your master bath). A double vanity can be a big selling point, especially for buyers who have outgrown their current home.

Design: Urrutia Design
https://www.wayfair.ca/Shop-The-Look/Designer/Urrutia-Design-D151258

Tip! Bathrooms can sometimes make or break a deal. Before your next open house make sure your hardware is sparkly clean and your bath is dirt-free.